Shanghai (dpa) - The Formula 1 racing teams are discussing a possible cancellation or relocation of the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai in view of the spreading corona virus on February 5.
This was confirmed by Red Bull team boss Christian Horner at a media event in London. "At the moment we could not send anyone there because nobody would get there," Horner told the motorsport.com portal. The race on the Shanghai International Circuit on the outskirts of the metropolis is scheduled for April 19. The World Motorsport Association (FIA) had previously announced that it was monitoring the situation in China.
"They are responsible not only for the well-being of the drivers, but for all people who travel with them. And I am sure they will take the necessary care before deciding to postpone or cancel the race," said Horner and added: "We have to trust their knowledge and judgment." The talks take place as part of a strategy group meeting.
The FIA is monitoring the situation with the responsible authorities and member associations. The calendar of the upcoming races will be evaluated and, if necessary, "every measure will be taken to help protect the global motorsport community and the general public."
It was only on February 2 that the fully electric Formula E racing series announced that it would not start as planned on March 21 in Sanya, China. The reason for the decision in agreement with the responsible authorities, the world automobile association, the Chinese association and local partners was the rampant corona virus.
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Motorsport.com report